Introduction
Namaskar! Welcome to One India Hindi. Each year, on December 18, India observes Alpsankhyak Adhikardhiwas, a day dedicated to celebrating the rights of minorities. This day serves as a reminder to uphold the fundamental human rights of these communities and raise awareness about their importance. Let's delve into key facts about this significant day.
UN Declaration of Minority
On December 18, 1992, the United Nations made a historic announcement to safeguard and promote the welfare of minority communities globally. This announcement, known as the UN Declaration of Minority, aimed to ensure the protection of the rights of minority groups.
Evolution of the Declaration
The UN Declaration of Minority underwent a crucial change on January 29, 2006. It was revised to include a broader spectrum of unidentified minority communities such as Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Sikhs, Parsis, and Jains. This revision aimed to address specific concerns related to these communities, notably emphasizing issues related to Jainism.
Initiatives and Organizations
To support minority communities in India, the Central Government established the National Alpsankhyak Association in 1991 under the UN Declaration of Minority. Notably, five religious communities—Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Parsis—were designated as Alpsankhyak communities.
State-Level Involvement
Several Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Paksim Bengal, established their respective branches of the National Alpsankhyak Association. These state branches serve the interests of the minority communities within their regions.
Constitutional Safeguards
Articles 15 and 16 of the Indian Constitution explicitly highlight the need to uplift socially and physically marginalized groups. These articles mandate special efforts by the government to support and develop these communities. Additionally, the Constitution guarantees protection and opportunities in government jobs for these marginalized populations.
Government Initiatives
The Indian Alpsankhyak Ministry plays a pivotal role in addressing issues pertinent to minority communities. It oversees the formulation of policies aimed at safeguarding their interests and welfare.
Conclusion
Alpsankhyak Adhikardhiwas stands as a testament to the commitment towards preserving the rights and dignity of minority communities. As enshrined in the Indian Constitution and supported by international declarations, this day emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and protection for all individuals, irrespective of religious or social backgrounds.
